The popular theory that it's the Unions fault and by cutting jobs and forcing the remaining employees to accept a paycut will allow QF to survive is a fallacy because 1. foreign employees are paid much much less for much worse off conditions 2. many international airlines are state backed and can support their costs 3. LCC is the way to go because a majority want BFOD no matter who is flying, well maybe except Lion Air
and 4. Australia has one of the highest cost for any business, no matter which industry.
I still stand by my very unpopular opinion, that QFi should just shut shop. Let JQi cannonbalise the QFi passengers Those who don't like JQi, well can still fly on on a QF codeshare EK or whatever operated airline. Sell A380's to JQi, JQi to expand on more routes using Asian based crew whose wages are roughly AU$15,000 p.a. Keep QFd operations going where they still seem to do OK, keep QFFP as well however devalue points immediately by 20%. After devaluation 99% of those members will still remain active frequent flyer members, and those 1% [namely frequent flyer enthusiasts such as those found here on AFF] will jump ship to AA and what not. Those 1% are probably redeeming for those P, U long haul seats anyway so best to get rid of those members who are actually make the most of their points.